DC Direct Red Robin Action Figure

Although this is from the Kingdom Come series and therefore intended to be an alternate-universe Dick Grayson, at our house we consider it to be the later-part-of-Countdown Jason Todd. :)

It's a good-looking figure with wonderful detailing. I'm happy with it because I knew what to expect--however, it's not a very active action figure, is it? By that I mean that playability is quite low. The articulation is minimal--below minimal, really--with a head that turns, arms that turn but don't extend out at all, and legs that sort of pivot when you lift them (so that if you try to have him sit, they just turn backwards). The knees and elbows don't bend. Honestly, this guy is just eye candy.

The children both commented that he was "short," which I guess he is compared to a lot of the DC Direct figures. He does, however, match up well size-wise with the Marvel Legends figures, which tend to stay at a six-inch scale.

More "Hey, cool!"

So Newsarama says that DC says that

Status of Batwoman? She's going to be in James Robinson's upcoming "Justice League" title, DiDio reminded.

I think I was going to try out that title anyway, but here's another reason to do so--I'm looking forward to seeing what's done with Kate.

Early comic purchase planning

According to the Newsarama report on the DC universe panel at the current comic convention (seriously, how many comic conventions are there these days?), we can look forward to this:

A fan who was "very sad" when Jason Todd came back but came around, asked when we would see the character next. Morrison said there's a "big" Jason Todd series coming up after "Batman R.I.P."

I'll try it out. I'm assuming this means mini, not ongoing?

Considering this one

This article talks about an upcoming War Machine series.

I always liked the character of James Rhodes, although he certainly had a different sort of attitude back when I first encountered him in the 70s/80s, when the military aspect of his background was downplayed. Of course the main thing I recall from back then was his taking over the role of Iron Man when Tony Stark was...indisposed.

Anyway. Maybe I'll pick this up.

Dress code

I was glancing over some of the coverage of the latest comic convention at Newsarama (not like I'm ever going to actually go to one of these! :)) and came across this:

A fan asked, creepily, "will we see Wonder Woman in heels anytime soon?" (he asked the same question last year, if memory serves correctly). DiDio said no.

Is this really something people care about? I mean, really? Aesthetically, do the heels really make that much of a difference? Because I don't think I'd even noticed whether WW wore heels these days, you know?

Marvel Legends Action Figure: Spider-Woman (Julia Carpenter model)

The thirteen-year-old had been lobbying for a Julia Carpenter for a while, so when the opportunity arose, we took it. I think her preference has to do mainly with the costume (personally I like Jessica's costume but I have fond 1970s memories of it).

The body sculpt, head and all, appears to be exactly the same as for the Jessica Drew Spider-Woman, just with a different paint job, so a lot of what I said about that one applies here as well. Therefore, even the face is the same. Different lipstick, of course, for a mark of individuality. :)

I will say that--given the fact that Jessica's arm broke off at the shoulder some time ago and is being held on solely by the under-arm webbing--we should take care with this new one because she might be prone to the same sorts of injury

What I Want: The October 08 Marvel Solicitations

AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #573
NEW WAYS TO DIE: THE FINAL CHAPTER
Some jobs a man just has to do with his own two hands! For the first time in a loooong time, it's the one, true GREEN GOBLIN versus the AMAZING SPIDER-MAN! And whoever walks away from this one still has to face... HARRY OSBORN?! Just what is HARRY up to?! Plus: ANTI-VENOM goes toe-to-toe with a classic villain from Spidey's past! This one’s got it all (including more pages!), Spider-Fans, and when it’s over, your eyes are gonna need a vacation!
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #574
WHATEVER HAPPENED TO FLASH THOMPSON?
A powerful story taking Peter Parker’s former nemesis and Spider-Man’s biggest fan from the avenues of New York to the war torn Middle East along with his fellow brothers in the US Army.
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #575
As the Mayoral election ramps up, gang activity is at an all time high...and Mr. Negative’s newest enforcer, HAMMERHEAD, works to bring all the gangs under one banner...or else. With some of the kids from Aunt May’s F.E.A.S.T. center caught in the crossfire, Spidey stands up to his old foe...but Hammerhead’s got some new tricks and even Spider-Man can’t stop him this time as Joe Kelly (Deadpool) and Chris Bachalo (Uncanny X-Men) bring you FAMILY TIES!
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN ANNUAL #1
Finally! One of the biggest mysteries of BRAND NEW DAY is revealed!
Who is the mysterious Jackpot? For months, merry Marvelites have pondered this question? Who is she? What is her dark and mysterious secret? And how does Walter Declun (Wolverine: Civil War) play a part in it? We're not telling, but Marc Guggenheim and Mike McKone are! Don't miss it, Tiger!

Lots of Spider-Man, looks like. I suppose I need to check in with the thirteen-year-old every so often, make sure she's still into it.


CAPTAIN AMERICA #43
Bucky has survived his first major trial as the new Captain America, but now a villain from his past - both as Bucky in WW2 and as the Winter Soldier during the Cold War - has come to the U.S. and he'll have to face his history just as he's finding his feet in the present. The beginning of a gripping war and espionage tale, with some familiar faces for long-term Cap readers, as the New Captain America moves further into the Marvel U.

The cover indicates the possibility of some Black Widow, which is nice, but I'd rather keep seeing Falcon if it's one or the other. (Hopefully it's both.)


MOON KNIGHT #23
“THE DEATH OF MARC SPECTOR,” PART 3
Norman Osborn and the Thunderbolts have been tapped to bring in the fugitive Moon Knight -- by all means necessary -- and so far they’ve been left empty-handed. But Norman’s got a foolproof plan to flush out his prey. He’s got the numbers and the element of surprise, but what he doesn’t know is that Moon Knight is not alone.

I think I'll like this book better again once we're done with the issue of Moon Knight as an unregistered hero.


RUNAWAYS #3
The Runaways are more scattered than ever! Barely surviving an attack by some of the few remaining members of Karolina’s alien race, the Runaways need to pull it together to be ready for the alien warriors when they get back. But it’s looking bleak!

I sure hope this is good, because the thirteen-year-old is looking forward to it.


SHE-HULK #34
From the pages of HULK, the Lady Liberators arrive to launch a new story arc! She-Hulk has been capturing the bad-guys as a bounty hunter...but is that enough for our conflicted hero? Time to kick things up a notch– and that means calling in Valkyrie, Thundra and the Invisible Woman to dispense some hard justice as the Lady Liberators!

Yes! The Valkyrie! (Also, I always had a soft spot for Thundra.)


AVENGERS/INVADERS #5 (of 12)
The second act of the hit maxi-series begins as our three teams -- the Avengers vs. the Avengers vs the Invaders – face off in an all-out battle aboard the S.H.I.E.L.D. Helicarrier! While battle rages, Dr. Strange attempts to solve the mystery of what ripped the greatest Heroes Of World War II to the present day, and how to put them back. Will the combined might of three super-teams be enough to stop the cross-time devastation? Match all of this with the return of one of the Avengers deadliest villains -- one with a particular interest in the Original Human Torch -- and you know, from what you've seen so far, the return of Captain America is only the tip of the iceberg!

Still sounding good.


CAPTAIN AMERICA: THEATER OF WAR — OPERATION ZERO-POINT
The first in a series of specials covering the length and breadth of the larger-than-life legend of Captain America, as told by the industry’s leading experts in the field! First up, it’s 1944, and wouldn't you know it? Them sneaky Nazis have managed to crack the secrets of electro-magnetic physics...yeah, that's right: apples may fall down in the free world, but schnitzels are falling up in the skies over a mysterious lab in a Polish forest, thanks to a little help from a nearby forced-labor camp. Sure, we could send in the Marines, but why bother when we've got Captain America?! But even Cap may be meeting his match against the lab's sadistic cybernetic commandant. Because everyone knows, the only thing worse than a Nazi is a Robot Nazi!

This one looks like fun (also, can't resist Captain America these days).


CAPTAIN AMERICA: WHITE #1 (of 6)
Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale, the Eisner award winning team (DAREDEVIL: YELLOW, SPIDER-MAN: BLUE, HULK: GRAY, Batman: The Long Halloween, Superman: For All Seasons, Television’s HEROES) present an all-new chronicle in their color book series. WORLD WAR II is in full effect, and Captain America and Bucky have been thrust onto the battle’s frontlines. Cap and Buck’s latest mission puts them on a collision course with Sgt. Fury and his Howling Commandos that could alter the ending of WW2 as we know it!

WWII-era Cap and Nick Fury? Theoretically this should be good.


CAPTAIN BRITAIN AND MI13 #6
“Hell Comes To Birmingham”
As the team is rocked by confusion in their ranks, they're called into battle on their first official mission. All hell has broken loose in Birmingham and MI 13 agent Captain Midlands in the middle of it. It's super heroes vs. the supernatural, full on. What has Dr. Plokta offered the residents in return for their immortal souls? And why are the Mindless Ones starting their assualt from Birmingham? The team lost one member in their first adventure... can they all survive this? Part 1 (of 4)

I'm still expecting to enjoy this book.


MARVEL ADVENTURES THE AVENGERS #29
It's just a cat, right? I mean, the Avengers SHOULD be able to rescue a cat from a tree, right? Unfortunately, when both cat and tree are in an overlapping universe, giving them a very ghostly, and very INTANGIBLE presence, that does make it a puzzler. And it's doubly hard for the Avengers when their efforts attract a deadly interdimensional monster! Plus, the somewhat scintillating menace of...Hammerhead!

I predict that the nine-year-old, who loves nothing more than cats, will love this issue.


MS. MARVEL #32
The story you never knew! Before she was Ms. Marvel, Carol Danvers was a secret agent for the Air Force.
Imprisoned by an unforgiving enemy, Carol must withstand her captor's brutality and find some way to save America.

This doesn't actually sound all that good...but I'll get it.


SECRET INVASION #7 (OF 8)
THIS IS IT!! The Marvel Universe versus the Skrull Empire – a battle of unity and spirit the likes of which the Earth has never seen. The comic event of the year starts its shocking conclusion.

So does anyone actually think that cardstock covers make a comic worth a dollar more? I know I don't.


MIGHTY AVENGERS #19
Before the Skrulls invaded the human race, they battled the noble Kree in a bloodwar that has lasted centuries. And in this special Secret Invasion tie-in, the lives of two of the most famous Kree, Captain Mar-Vell and Marvel Boy, will alter the events of the Invasion forever. This special issue will have very serious consequences for the future of Mighty Avengers.

Very serious consequences. Right. Special issue. Right.


NEW AVENGERS #46
The notorious Hood and his gang of the most powerful super-villains of all time need a leg up on the Skrulls. But to get it, the Hood will have to find the true secret to his powers. Who is the demon behind the Hood? Find out in this very special Secret Invasion tie-in.

Geez, and this one is "very special." I know what that means when they say it about a television show, hope it means something different here.


AVENGERS: THE INITIATIVE #18
THE EXPLOSIVE FINALE STARTS HERE!
Now that the KILL KREW knows Skrullowjacket's master plan, can they stop the TRUE purpose of the Fifty State Initiative? Plus: It's THOR GIRL vs. ULTRA GIRL! One is more than she appears to be... and the other's a Skrull. And, after fourteen issues, are we REALLY going to unmask MUTANT ZERO?!

Everyone around here seems to enjoy this title.


DEADPOOL #3
"ONE OF US,” PART 3
As the next generation of Super-Skrull prepares to wreak havoc on our unsuspecting planet, Deadpool reveals his ultimate plan -- a plan that is completely and utterly insane. Will it succeed? Will it fail? Will it...do BOTH!? Don’t miss out on the event that will re-establish Deadpool as one of the most controversial characters in the Marvel Universe!
WE TOLD YOU HE’D BE BACK!

Deadpool! And happiness ensues.


YOUNG X-MEN #7
MANIFEST DESTINY TIE-IN
The Young X-Men have a brand new line-up... but one of them isn't a mutant! And doesn't know it! Secrets are revealed and discovered in this self-contained issue perfect for new readers and fans of the new Manifest Destiny X-Status Quo!

So far this has been decent.

What I Want: The October 08 DC Solicitations

FINAL CRISIS #5
Humanity enslaved! Time shattered and bleeding! Anti-Life triumphant! Can Earth's demoralized, beaten heroes rally their scattered forces for the ultimate super-battle against the nightmare armies of Apokolips when the forces of good meet the forces of evil on the bridge to Blüdhaven? As Darkseid's presence causes reality itself to sicken and the lights to go out across the universe, as even the Guardians fall, the true power of the evil gods finally reveals itself, and a major character returns for a shocking conclusion.
Does the secret of humankind’s salvation lie in a mysterious cave painting and a bolt of lightning? Or has the Last Day come for us all?

So far this has been readable. A little more big-picture than I tend to like in a comic book.


FINAL CRISIS: RAGE OF THE RED LANTERNS #1
The prelude to “The Blackest Night” begins here!
They come from a place of great anger and hatred. They are the Red Lanterns and they will have their revenge against the greatest Green Lantern - Sinestro. That is, unless the Guardians have theirs first.

On the whole, the Final Crisis tie-ins aren't making me buy them. This one, I'm getting.


SECRET SIX #2
One of the most-requested and anticipated confrontations in recent DC history takes place right here: Catman vs. Batman! The Six's latest mission takes the team to Alcatraz to free a Super-Villain, but what is the secret she carries that hundreds of villains would give their lives to possess? DC's dirtiest team only gets dirtier, and we wouldn't want it any other way!

Of course. :)


TITANS #6
Raven is missing, and the Titans must truly come together as a team in order to save her. Their fragile unity is further threatened, though, when they discover what they're really up against! And, as if the Titans didn't have enough on their hands, an old member resurfaces and brings along an unexpected threat that no one could’ve seen coming!

Still planning on keeping this one on the list.


BATMAN #681
This is it – “Batman R.I.P.” concludes here! The final, heartrending confrontation between Bruce Wayne and Jezebel Jet. The final fate of The Dark Knight. And the horrifying and shocking truth behind the Black Glove. With The Joker, the Club of Villains, Robin, Damian, plus an ending you’ll never see coming – this one has it all!

I'm guessing I'm dropping this one after this arc (since I only picked it up for this arc), but we'll see.


DETECTIVE COMICS #849
A “Batman R.I.P.” tie-in! In this penultimate chapter of the
5-part arc “Heart of Hush,” Batman tears his way through Gotham City’s underworld to reach his dangerous adversary. But after the Dark Knight learns what his childhood friend-turned-villain is really after, will Batman be able to survive what Hush plans next? The lives of both Bruce Wayne and Tommy Elliot come full circle in this story of beginnings and brutal endings!

More Batman. Buying because of the Hush story.


BATGIRL #4
Batgirl and company take on the deadly Daughters of David Cain and one of the toughest villains in the DCU – both at the same time! Plus: The identity of David Cain's target is revealed! If you thought life was getting easier for Cassandra, you were wrong!

This one will depend on the kids--if they like it, we'll keep getting it.


BIRDS OF PREY #123
The Joker crosses Oracle's doorstep as he muscles in on the
high-tech gangs running the new city the Birds of Prey operate out of. But will Oracle be able to control herself when facing the maniac who crippled her?

I'm still good with this one.


GREEN LANTERN CORPS #29
The lead-in to “Blackest Night” begins with “The Sins of the Star Sapphire.” Catch a glimpse into the beginning of the latest Corps being formed and what it will mean to the Green Lanterns. Plus, Ice proposes to Guy Gardner!

So far this looks like the DC offering I'm most looking forward for this month.


JUSTICE SOCIETY OF AMERICA #20
It's the Justice Society of America vs. the Justice Society Infinity of Earth-2 with the fate of Power Girl at the center of it all! Meanwhile, Starman struggles with his returned sanity as he embarks on his true mission in our time period – one that will have vital consequences for the Crisis of the 31st century!

So far I haven't seen much I haven't liked in this title, and a focus on Power Girl is just a bonus.


WONDER WOMAN #25
Who wouldn’t want to see their name in lights? Wonder Woman, that’s who, and she’s now hell bent on putting a stop to the Wonder Woman movie. At least she is until she realizes the impact she has on young women and girls, and must decide what’s more important to her – her sanity or her conscience?
Plus, Wonder Womans’ courtship of Nemesis takes a daring turn as the series hits issue

A daring turn, hm? I can guess what we're supposed to expect. But I can also guess we won't be seeing what we'd expect.

DC Direct 52 Action Figure: Isis

There wasn't a lot that appealed to me in the 52 action figure series. (I think there's only been one set of 52 figures, hasn't there?) Just Batwoman, and this one--the mighty Isis!

I will confess that, in this case, the main reason I wanted the figure was looks. She's just so darn pretty! (Okay, that and some vague childhood memories of the Shazam/Isis Hour.) I liked Isis in the comic series, was rather disappointed in her end but liked the character for the most part. But if the figure hadn't been so nicely done I probably wouldn't have made a point of getting her.

And she is beautiful. Gorgeous, even. The costume detailing is excellent (the sandals are amazing), the face regal and determined, the body reasonably toned and muscular.

Of course beautiful is only half the story, if that. Is she playable, you're asking. Well...I don't necessarily expect the DC Direct figures to be extremely playable because they're generally not. She has the basic articulation--knees, shoulders, elbows, neck. The wrists turn. The waist doesn't. The hair gets in the way of free head action but that's pretty usual for a long-haired figure. She cannot sit. (Although she can do a decent back-bend.) If we had an action-figure recliner she could use that if she leaned it all the way back, but we don't, so she'll probably spend her action-figure life standing or lying down.

And the elbow is weak. If we're not careful it's going to break, but the children have been alerted to that possibility. That's not really a design flaw, though, that's a problem with this particular figure.

I suppose I need to keep an eye out for a Black Adam now. At the moment someone has her standing next to Namor, but he seems unimpressed thus far.

Dead or alive?

Okay, so in Secret Invasion, a number of the Marvel heroes have been replaced by Skrulls. (I'm pretty sure this isn't a spoiler for anyone. :))

What I've been wondering is whether they've been killing the originals or keeping them alive/imprisoned.

I'd prefer them to be alive (with perhaps an exception or two :)), but why would the Skrulls do that if they didn't have to? It increases the risk of discovery, if the original should escape, but mainly it would seem to be beside the point to keep them around.

They don't seem to need the original alive to maintain their perfect illusion (no "psychic connection" or anything like that, which would make an excuse for keeping them alive). Possibly they need the original as a template to work from, so in that case it might be advantageous to keep them around in case something happens to one Skrull duplicate and they want to make another.

I suppose that's something else that'll be revealed eventually.

(On a separate note, I've been typing away in Blogger here, and kept wondering just why the word "Skrull" kept getting underlined in red. What, it's a perfectly normal word, why wouldn't Blogger recognize it...oh, yeah...*headsmack*)

On not rushing out to see Batman

You know, I'm just not that interested in seeing the new Batman movie.

It's certainly had enough media publicity to get me thinking about it. And I've heard it's very good, from people whose opinions I trust.

But I don't much care if I ever see it.

I'm sure I will eventually. When it comes out on DVD, undoubtedly the husband and kids will rent it and I'll probably be in the room when they watch it, so I'll catch at least bits of it.

But, wow, I can't remember the last time I was this unexcited about a comic book movie.

Thought-provoking links, we've got them!

There's an article up at Comic Book Resources about the surprising discoveries made by a comic book retailer about which trade paperbacks sell in his store.

It does explain a lot about why, when I recently was able to go to a couple of comic stores while on vacation, I couldn't really find any trades I wanted in a store. (Actually, I guess it's really the sheer number of trades that exist now that explains that. But it kind of goes together.) Which is why I bought toys instead :). Apparently if I want a specific title, I'm going to have the best luck going with an online comic bookseller. If I had a local store I could order through them. I don't. If I'm at a comic store, I'm there while on vacation--if it's not actually in the store at that moment it doesn't do me a bit of good. Then again, as a once-a-year-or-less customer I'm guessing my business isn't what they're thinking about in their long-range planning.

Anyway, it strikes me that the possible move to trades just isn't going to be a good thing for most comic shops, is it?

And Barbie doesn't have the figure for Black Canary's costume anyway

There's an interview up at Newsarama with Amanda Conner about the new Black Canary Barbie doll that folks are getting so hot under the collar about.

But...it's Barbie. Barbie just isn't known for her conservative fashion sense.

And it's a collector Barbie. It isn't intended for kids, not really (not at that price!).

Which is good. Because, as a mom, I've got to tell you that Mattel has lost the fashion-doll war when it comes to what kids like. I've got two daughters. And a toy bin full of old Bratz dolls. (And I'm pretty sure at least a few of them have shown up in fishnets.)

Am I a bad reader?

I was reading this interview about Trinity at Comic Book Resources, which is pretty interesting on the whole, and this bit stuck out:

My view has always been that it's worth looking the reviews and seeing what people have to say. Some of the people who love it will be wrong because they love it but miss the point of what they are seeing. Some of the people who hate it will be wrong because they are blind to it and angry about something else entirely. But there will be people who both like and dislike it for reasons that are solid and well founded...

And it got me thinking: am I one of those people who likes things for the wrong reasons?

Also: who decides what are the right and wrong reasons?

(I'm being deliberately obtuse here. I'm pretty sure that "wrong" as used in the interview refers to folks who literally don't understand what's going on. But bear with me for a few.)

I've dropped Trinity, at least for the time being. I don't think it's a bad book but it just doesn't appeal to me enough to justify the expense. If I had money to burn I'd probably keep getting it.

Now, I liked Countdown. I didn't get on board with it immediately, but once I did I was never tempted to drop it. (Actually, that's one of the reasons I signed up for Trinity in the first place--didn't want to miss anything I expected to like that much. Since I don't, I'm dropping it. Might pick it up again later. Who can tell about these things?) I was eventually a bit disappointed with the payoff, but I still enjoyed it as a whole and don't regret buying it.

What I'm getting at here, in part, is that I'm one who reads books for the characters. That's one of the main draws for me. If it's also a good, well-written story, great. If it's an exceptional story, awesome. Subtle characterizations, complex motivations, unexpected plot twists? I appreciate them. I like them. But on their own they don't sell a comic to me. What sells a comic to me is a certain personal investment in the characters.

When did I start getting Countdown? When GL Kyle Rayner showed up. Of course I then discovered that, hey, there are other interesting people in this, and I picked up the back issues and bought all the others and never looked back. Turned out that one of my favorite storylines was Piper/Trickster, but I'd never have known about it unless and until I actually had the comic in my hands, and that didn't happen until the presence of Kyle brought me in.

Is that a case of reading a comic for the "wrong" reasons? It's certainly a case of putting something other than simple comic quality at the top of my list of reasons for reading it.

Oh, dear.

Someone has informed me that eBay is a good source of action figures.

This is dangerous knowledge, which I hope to use only for good.

A little hand-holding would be nice once in a while

I think it's nice (and, apparently, pretty standard) when a comic company makes sure to list tie-ins for event comics or simple crossovers. (It's even nicer when they give you an order they're best read in.)

What I'd really like, though--and I know this isn't going to happen--is for there to be some indication as to whether it's a necessary tie-in or a peripheral tie-in.

As you could maybe tell, I've been trying to figure out what I need to buy in order to appreciate the upcoming Hush storyline in Batman. It shouldn't be this much work to get rid of money.

Might want it, might not

I saw a preview today of Rogue's Revenge, and it looks interesting--I've mostly enjoyed DC's villain-focused storylines despite the fact that historically I know so little about those villains (apart from, say, Luthor and the Joker).

But I've never been a real fan of the Flash. I like what I've seen of Jay Garrick, and I thought Wally was all right in JLA (partly due to his interactions there with GL Kyle, I think), but even with my growing appreciation of the DC world, the Flashes have never captured my imagination.

However, the Piper/Trickster storyline was one of my favorite parts of Countdown.

So I am considering this when the trade comes out.

Question: if (as seems to be the case) more and more people are waiting for the trade, does that mean that comic companies will eventually stop using floppy sales to gauge whether the keep a comic going? Now, that would be a hard thing to estimate!

Is there a doctor in the house?

The kids have decided to add a hospital wing to the action figure clubhouse.

For all the broken action figures--the ones missing arms or legs (or heads--I'm looking at you, Marvel Legends Ms. Marvel!).

Any other heroes with medical training are also staying there at the moment. So I've been pummeled with questions as to who's qualified. However, although many of the MU PhD-doctors do medical work on occasion when the plot calls for it, the only one I can think of offhand who's an actual M.D. is Doctor Strange and I think he's mostly retired. (There also used to be Thor's alter ego, Don Blake, but I have no idea what's up with that these days.)

There are not currently any plans to fix 'em with more than duct tape.

I really need to figure out how to do some minor repairs.

Final word on Watchmen from these parts

The thirteen-year-old picked up Watchmen yesterday (!) and looked through it for twenty minutes or so. At this point she's still going with her first opinion: "Oh, it's old."

A very few more detailed thoughts on Watchmen

I liked it. It was very good. Definitely a re-reader, one I'll pick up every so often to enjoy again. The characters are well-defined and realistic, the dialogue is excellent and individualized. I really enjoyed the generational aspect--the interactions between the legacy heroes and the originals. I thought there was a really good sense of how the early heroes were really just trying to figure it out as they went, which was nicely done (since modern readers have a certain set of expectations of superhero behavior, it must have been a challenge to get across subtly that that wasn't always the case). And...and this is the real indicator of enjoyment...I would probably read more of these folks' stories if they were available.

However, no, I wasn't blown away. To me, someone who grew up with comics and who has gradually become accustomed to the bar being raised on a regular basis, it was still an exceptional story, but no longer the phenomenon it must have been twenty years agao.

That was fast.

I've done my first read-through of Watchmen now; I want to reread it, but on the whole I'd say that I enjoyed it and I really can't imagine how they're going to make a movie of it.

The husband glanced over it as well, said that it didn't really seem all that special compared with other comics. I suspect that it was different from most of what was out there in 1985, but I think he's also right--modern comics are on the whole of better quality.

Finally did it

I picked up a copy of Watchmen at the bookstore last night. I haven't started it yet, but I have it, and that means I'll read it fairly soon. Figure I should do that before seeing the movie.

Good summer reading

I've read the thirteen-year-old's Atomic Robo trade now, and I have to say that I'm impressed--very enjoyable, very readable, very kid-friendly. I'm going to suggest the nine-year-old read it the next time she's claiming to be "bored." (I have no sympathy for kid boredom--it's summer, there are books and toys and comics all over, not to mention the computer and the PS2 and bikes and a tire swing and a nice big yard and a nosy cat, so anyone who is "bored" just isn't thinking. :))

She prefers trades when she can get them, so I'm guessing we'll wait for the next one rather than getting the upcoming run.

Ignorance is bliss?

I haven't gotten used to the new Newsarama interface yet, and am no longer checking them daily.

I also don't care much for the Comic Book Resources site in terms of navigability, so I don't go there either.

What this means is that--horrors!--I am no longer checking any comic news on a daily basis.

Which is just wrong on some level.

Comic economic choices

Well, I'm definitely dropping Trinity. Didn't include it on September's order (so will be getting two more months of it and that's it). That's -4 comics from my total.

On the other hand I'm also adding (+2)some new ongoing series--Secret Six and Deadpool.

That's still -2 to the total, so I guess I come out ahead, monetarily.

So lovely...

I'm not personally a big fan of the Minimates toys--they're way too likely to lose bits to make me happy--although both of my daughters absolutely love them.

However, I may have to get myself some.

The nice people at Comic by Comic put up a link to...drumroll..Invaders Minimates!

They are awesomely cool. I'm not sure what I'd do with them, but dang, they look good.

In fact, they look so good that I had to put them on my desktop as a background:

This looks good

Yet another take on Bucky's partnership with Captain America in this preview of Captain America: White.

Not a big surprise

I'm thinking I'm probably going to be dropping Trinity. Just not enjoying it enough to justify getting a weekly.

Quick wave

The comics are here, but I haven't read them yet. Well, I read Captain America. But haven't had time for the rest. Or for writing right now, actually.

Like we need to increase the action figure population around here...

I wonder whether they're going to make action figures based on Countdown.

I'm assuming they will be because I can't imagine them not making a Mary Marvel in the black outfit.

We've just gotten the Mary in white so I can't imagine we'd want her in black as well, but I'd certainly buy a Jason Todd, or a Kyle in his new outfit.

What I Want: The DC September '08 Solicitations

TRINITY #14-17
Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman lead the heroes of the DCU against the machinations of their malevolent counterparts, resulting in a cataclysmic event that will change the world – but not like anyone involved expects. Plus, Hawkman and Gangbuster make their move to rescue Tarot, and Konvikt breaks loose.

Because I can't resist a weekly, apparently.


FINAL CRISIS #4
It's one month after the Anti-Life Equation was released worldwide. Millions now toil as slaves of Darkseid, while the Justifier shock troops of Apokolips lay waste to the planet Earth and hunt down its protectors.
The remaining free humans and superheroes are stationed around the world, besieged within the walls of ten very familiar 'Watchtowers', as they fight a desperate, losing battle against the triumphant forces of evil.
While Green Arrow and Black Canary attempt to deliver the secret of humanity's last hope across America's blasted wastelands, the Outsiders brave the horrors of the Bludhaven bunker in search of Batman. The ultimate battle is coming...but which heroes will become villain – and vice versa? And what part do the Secret Society have to play in the dawning of this new Age of Evil?
Darkness is falling and death rules the day. Is this truly the end of the Age of Super Heroes? Don't miss FINAL CRISIS #4: “How to Murder the Earth!”

Okay, that's a long damn description.


SECRET SIX #1
Because you demanded it! The Secret Six are back in an all-new ongoing series that promises to deliver some of the darkest, most twisted action-adventure the DC Universe has seen since...well, the last time the Secret Six got together! Writer extraordinaire Gail Simone (BIRDS OF PREY) is reunited with BIRDS penciller Nicola Scott to chronicle the adventures of the Six, and you will not believe what they have in store. Join Catman, Scandal, Deadshot, Ragdoll, and ?? as they prepare for an adventure that will take them through a gauntlet across the seediest parts of the DC Universe, and will ultimately pit them against a foe more monstrous and murderous than any they've had to face! Don't miss the beginning of the most ferocious and scandalous Six story yet!

This would be the book I'm most looking forward to, except that Deadpool got there first. :)


TITANS #5
When Raven's half-brothers return to claim her and unite Trigon's bloodline, Raven must choose which ties are stronger: the family she was born to, or the new family she has made.

Hm, that's a tough one...


BATGIRL #3
Batgirl, Marque and an unexpected ally cross swords – and daggers, spears and whips – with the deadly Daughters of David Cain! Also, Cassandra's worked hard to keep her private mission of vengeance secret from her allies – but is that enough?

Again, hope this one's good. The kid is looking forward to it.


DETECTIVE COMICS #848
A “Batman: R.I.P.” tie-in! “Heart of Hush” Part 3 of 5! To save the sanity of a kidnapped child, Batman must confront the Scarecrow! But their battle is just a part of Hush's plot against Batman and Bruce Wayne, setting the stage for the most shocking surprise ending of the year! Guest-starring Catwoman!

I'm getting this because of the Hush storyline, and will likely drop it immediately after.


BIRDS OF PREY #122
Zatanna lends a hand when Manhunter's fears begin to take over her mind, while the Visionary sends his Scavengers after the Birds of Prey! Also: The Joker comes a-calling on Barbara Gordon!

Zinda's on the cover! I hope that means she's featured in the story.


GREEN LANTERN CORPS #28
Written by Peter J. Tomasi
Art by Luke Ross & Fabio Laguna
Cover by Rodolfo Migliari
As Kyle and Guy deal with personal issues on Oa, several Lanterns search for whoever’s been gruesomely removing the eyes of their relatives. Meanwhile, the Guardian known as Scar summons Lantern Saarek for a mission that will lead directly into The Blackest Night.

I guess I'm kind of looking forward to Blackest Night, although I'm wondering whether another big Green Lantern-focused story could do well so soon after the Sinestro Corps.


JUSTICE SOCIETY OF AMERICA #19
“One World, Under Gog” continues! The Justice Society begins to dissolve as Gog vows to bring peace to Earth...in a way that frightens some and thrills others. But with Hawkman around, it’s not going to be a simple debate. Plus, Starman reveals his concerns about the team’s future to Mr. Terrific while Power Girl struggles to come to terms with her greatest desire!

I am not, generally, a big fan of the Great Big Huge Cosmic World-Changing Story. But I've been liking this.


WONDER WOMAN #24
After Diana's high-profile showdown with the devil is broadcast worldwide, Hollywood comes calling with a surefire proposal: WONDER WOMAN: THE MOVIE! It's the summer blockbuster to end all blockbusters, but will Diana play along? And will the project get back-burnered permanently by a terrorist with a grudge against the Amazons?

Could be interesting. Actually, the thing about the current Wonder Woman is that even when the story doesn't sound all that good (Beowulf?) it seems to end up that way.


GREEN LANTERN: IN BRIGHTEST DAY TP
Acclaimed GREEN LANTERN writer Geoff Johns selects and provides commentary on his favorite tales of the Emerald Guardian, originally printed in GREEN LANTERN #7, 40, 59, 162, 173, 177, 182, 183 and 188, GREEN LANTERN (Second Series) #51, GREEN LANTERN CORPS QUARTERLY #6 and GREEN LANTERN CORPS ANNUAL #2.

Hm. Maybe. I try not to get more than one trade a month and I'm already getting the Captain America...but this looks pretty good, has all five Lanterns on the cover and all that.


SCOOBY-DOO #136
The Scoobs get the jump on Halloween with a night of thrills, chills...and goblins?! Get in gear for the most exciting holiday of the season with this companion to the all-new Scooby movie, Scooby-Doo and the Shadow Goblins!

As always, Scooby for the nine-year-old.